Bob Ford: A Pro’s Pro

Some years ago, the PGA of America produced an advertisement that extolled the virtues of its club professionals and detailed the many things they have to do – and do well – to prosper in their business. Like merchandising golf apparel and mentoring aspiring assistants. Teaching lessons and running tournaments. Handling rules disputes and dealing with club politics.

Another item on the list was playing. With their members, to be sure, but also in competitions on local and national levels. And that made good sense, for PGA club professionals are first and foremost golfers, and the vast majority of them developed their initial passions for the game as players.

It was a powerful bit of promotion that spoke to the many talents PGA members possess. But it inadvertently highlighted an increasingly difficult part of that job, and that is maintaining a high level of skill as a player. The job of club professional now entails so many different aspects and demands that it is difficult for many to find the time to practice and play.

The...